Cavka cut short

Cavka's body simply would not hold up to the rigours of AFL preparation

The AFL career of affable young midfielder Damien Cavka has been cut down in its infancy because of a hereditary foot injury.

The degenerative condition flared shortly after he set a new 2km time trial record in his first pre-season last year and despite a couple of delicate operations, the injury has not improved.

Cavka, secured with selection 66 in the 2014 National Draft, announced to the playing group this morning that expert medical advice determined the bone structure within his foot would not allow him to continue.

The 19-year-old had done all he could to follow his dream of playing senior football with the club, but his body simply would not hold up to the rigours of AFL preparation.

“It’s terribly disappointing for Damien, shattering actually, that he won’t be able to pursue the dream of playing senior footy,” coach Adam Simpson said. “But he’s a quality young man, with strong support around him and he will get the direction he needs to focus on the next phase of his life.

“We didn’t get to see him play a lot of footy, but Damien had an impact around the group in the last 14 months and had won the respect of the rest of the players and the coaching staff.”

The club wishes Damien every success with his future endeavours and will support him in any way possible.